Research Professor at Ludovika University of Public Service, Hungary
Dr. Éva Ács is a research professor at Ludovika University of Public Service, Hungary, specializing in aquatic ecology with particular expertise in benthic diatoms, phytobenthos, and water quality assessment. With an established career in research, teaching, and consultancy, she has played a pivotal role in advancing algology, aquatic monitoring, and applied water management. Her contributions span taxonomy, ecology, and applied environmental sciences, positioning her as a leading figure in both national and international research networks. She has collaborated widely with academic institutions, environmental authorities, and international organizations, contributing to innovations that directly support ecological monitoring and sustainable water resource management.
Professional Profile
Scopus Profile | ORCID
Education
Dr. Ács pursued higher education in the natural sciences, where her interest in aquatic ecosystems and microscopic algae laid the foundation for her career. Her academic formation centered on algology, aquatic ecology, and diatom taxonomy, equipping her with both theoretical insights and practical methodologies essential for water quality assessment. Her scholarly development was strongly influenced by interdisciplinary training, where she combined morphology and molecular approaches to study diatoms. Throughout her academic journey, she strengthened her expertise in phytobenthos research and bioindication methods, which later became central to her scientific contributions. Her education was not only a preparation for research but also a gateway to mentoring and teaching the next generation of scientists, a responsibility she continues to uphold.
Professional Experience
As a research professor at Ludovika University of Public Service, Dr. Ács has combined academic teaching with extensive research activity. She has contributed to numerous national and international projects, including the Széchenyi Plan Plus program and the National Laboratory for Water Science and Water Security. Her expertise has also been sought in consultancy projects supporting river basin management and ecological monitoring, such as the development of modular sensor systems for water quality assessment and investigations into the effects of cavitation on aquatic organisms. Her professional journey reflects a balance between theoretical ecology and applied science, ensuring that her work benefits both academic advancement and real-world water management. Additionally, she has provided guidance as a mentor and educator, building research capacity in aquatic ecology and algology within Hungary and beyond.
Research Focus
The central theme of Dr. Ács’s research is aquatic ecology, with a focus on benthic diatoms and phytobenthos. Her studies have advanced understanding of diatom taxonomy, morphology, and molecular identification, which are critical for accurate ecological monitoring. She has significantly contributed to the development of ecological quality assessment methods for surface waters, particularly in the framework of the European Union’s Water Framework Directive. Her research integrates algal ecology with applied water management, offering practical bioindication tools for environmental authorities. In addition, she has engaged in international collaborations, including research with NASA on the Licancabur Project, which investigated extreme environments and diatom diversity. Her innovative approach bridges fundamental science and applied solutions, strengthening the role of ecological monitoring in conservation and water policy.
Publication Top Notes
Title: Intermittency as an Environmental Filter: Diatom Traits and Water Quality Indicators in a Hydrodynamic Context
Authors: Alexander G. Rusanov; Zsuzsa Trábert; Keve T. Kiss; János L. Korponai; Mikhail Y. Kolobov; Tibor Bíró; Edit Vadkerti; Éva Ács
Summary: Examines how hydrological intermittency filters diatom traits and water quality indicators. Highlights their value for bioassessment in variable aquatic systems.
Title: Integration of Morphology‐Based and Molecular Techniques to Study the Most Significant Diatom Order (Thalassiosirales) of Phytoplankton in the River Danube
Authors: Éva Ács; János László Korponai; Keve Tihamér Kiss; Tibor Bíró; Mónika Duleba; István Grigorszky; József Szekeres; Edit Vadkerti; Imre Somlyai
Summary: Combines morphology and molecular methods to study Thalassiosirales in the Danube. Improves taxonomy and ecological monitoring accuracy.
Title: Proficiency Testing and Cross-Laboratory Method Comparison to Support Standardisation of Diatom DNA Metabarcoding for Freshwater Biomonitoring
Authors: Valentin Vasselon; Sinziana F. Rivera; Éva Ács; Salomé F.P. Almeida; Karl B. Andree; Laure Apothéloz-Perret-Gentil; Bonnie Bailet; Ana Baričević; Kevin K. Beentjes; Juliane Bettig et al.
Summary: Presents cross-laboratory tests for diatom DNA metabarcoding. Supports standardization and strengthens freshwater biomonitoring practices.
Title: Diatom Metacommunity Structuring in a Large Lake: Geomorphic, Water Chemistry and Dispersal Effects on Diatom Guilds in Lake Ladoga (North-Western Russia)
Authors: Alexander G. Rusanov; Evgeny A. Kurashov; Anna M. Rasulova; Tibor Bíró; Edit Vadkerti; Éva Ács
Summary: Analyzes geomorphic, chemical, and dispersal effects on diatoms in Lake Ladoga. Reveals guild-specific ecological responses in large lakes.
Conclusion
Dr. Éva Ács exemplifies the integration of academic excellence, applied research, and international collaboration. Her pioneering work in benthic diatom ecology, taxonomy, and ecological assessment has provided essential tools for water quality monitoring and environmental management. With an impressive publication record, extensive project leadership, and commitment to mentoring, she has influenced both policy and practice in aquatic ecology. Her editorial contributions and professional memberships further demonstrate her dedication to strengthening the scientific community. In recognition of her achievements and her impact on both fundamental and applied aquatic sciences, Dr. Ács is a distinguished nominee for the Best Researcher Award of the Zoology Honour Awards.